Boat show harbors dreams of open water

Jeff Foss (right) and Chad Bickler of Summerset Marine located clean snow off of boats they will have on display at the Milwaukee Boat Show. The show will showcase the newest boats retailed in the region. Credit: Tom Lynn

Wisconsinites dreaming of summertime's open waters can get a taste of that fun at the Milwaukee Boat Show, which continues its run daily through Sunday at the Wisconsin State Fair Expo Center.

The show this year features more than 250 boats, from yachts to fishing boats. The queen of the show is a yacht with more than 6 feet of inside headroom, a lavish galley and full-standing shower.

But even if that cruiser's price tag doesn't match your pocketbook, the show offers plenty of other water-based options. Fishing seminars cover the pursuit of trout and salmon. Model boat enthusiasts demonstrate their craft. Antique and classic boats will be displayed as their owners explain restoration techniques. The USS Wisconsin, a replica of a nuclear-powered sub, will be exhibited to honor veterans.

And pro wakeboarders will share their tips and techniques with visitors.

Show hours are 3 to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon to 9:30 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $9 for adults; free for ages 12 and younger with a paid adult.